Monday, May 8, 2017

The 19th Century had just commenced and already its fascination for the masked or masquerade ball had begun. The fashion for masquerades peaked during the Victorian era, but the Regency was also enamoured of the mystique and charm of costumed fun. Even the royals celebrated birthdays with masquerades.

London Courier and Evening Gazette - Friday 02 January 1801

By 1809, masquerades were vastly popular and even held as fund-raising events for charity.

Morning Chronicle - Wednesday 29 November 1809

Pantheon Masquerade - National Portrait Gallery

London Courier and Evening Gazette - Wednesday 28 February 1810

The Pantheon was a frequent site of masquerades but the Christmas of 1812 saw a flurry of private events also.

Hereford Journal - Wednesday 15 January 1812

Morning Chronicle - Friday 03 January 1812

Cheltenham Chronicle - Thursday 16 January 1812

Public masquerades were often descried as scenes of license and vice. Crimes could and did take place. And certainly the anonymity provided by costumes and masks invited a freedom of manners that could degenerate into debauchery.

Morning Advertiser - Wednesday 28 February 1810

Specialist costumers were quick to see the sales potential of serving the masquerade-going public.

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